5 New Ways to Explore Japan

The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) identified Japan as one of the hottest destinations to travel to in 2018.

Thinking about visiting? Immerse yourself in the country with a new tour from one of these operators highlighted by USTOA. A tour is one way to take a deep dive into the country with curated local activities and sightseeing that will leave an indelible impression on visitors to Japan.

Visit the land of the rising sun with Abercrombie & Kent on its Classic Japan itinerary.

Guests have the rare opportunity to stay at Gora Kadan, one of Japan's most exclusive traditional inns as well as experience a kaiseki banquet with entertainment by a geisha and visit the Samurai Museum in Tokyo.

Tauck is offering the Essence of Japan itinerary. The 13-day journey gives guests the chance to taste their way through the country with a visit to a sake distillery and a stop at the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo.

Ritz Tours gives travelers the chance to experience the Jewels of Japan on an eight-night journey. Guests cross the country on the bullet trains to Mount Fuji, Kyoto and eight UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples.

Contiki is taking its younger travelers on an adventurous jaunt through the country this winter. Guests visit Japan's iconic sites and cities then hit the slopes in the Hakuba Valley with a six-day add-on that includes a trip to a steamy onsen.

Explore Japanese culture with Collette's new Cultural Treasures of Japan journey. The 14-day itinerary includes stenciling and gold leaf classes, a traditional kaiseki dinner with a geisha show in Kyoto, views of Mount Fuji, a visit to Miyajima, "Shrine Island" and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.